“Seared” to Sizzle at Lachat

BPawesome/Adobe Stock

The contemporary comedy “Seared” comes to the Offutt Center at Lachat Town Farm in March with nine performances of Theresa Rebeck’s Off-Broadway hit, the play’s first staging in Connecticut.

The story of a small Brooklyn restaurant and its mercurial chef “poses great questions about art and commerce — any art — in a very humorous way,” says producer Diana Muller.

Tensions rise when the establishment is suddenly put on the map by a rave magazine review of brilliant Chef Harry’s signature scallops. Mike, his business partner, sees an opportunity to finally make the restaurant a commercial success.

Chef Harry doesn’t see it that way, and refuses to recreate his masterpiece for consumption by the masses. The advice of a consultant and the aspirations of a waiter add spice to the recipe.

The action takes place in Brian’s Kitchen, “literally the perfect marriage of play and venue,” said Ms. Muller. The state-of-the-art kitchen is named in honor of the late Brian Gordon, a Weston selectman and Lachat devotee who passed away in 2018.

On stage are actors Jasen Salvatore, Ricky Davis Jr., Melani Carrié and Brian Yeun, stars of New York City and Fairfield County theater. Ms. Muller said a casting call produced hundreds of resumés, taking advantage of the area’s “rich collection of professional actors” and Lachat’s emergence as a regional venue that attracts top talent.

Tickets for “Seared,” $45 and $55, are available now for these performance dates and times:

Friday & Saturday, March 7 & 8 at 7:30 pm
Sunday, March 9 at 3:00 pm
Friday & Saturday, March 14 & 15 at 7:30 pm
Sunday, March 16 at 3:00 pm
Friday & Saturday, March 21 & 22 at 7:30 pm
Sunday, March 23 at 3:00 pm

The play, suitable for ages 12 and up, is fragrant. It includes real-time cooking of scallops and salmon, which means it may not be a match for those with seafood allergies or sensitivities. None of the dishes will be served to the audience, but the bar will be open before the performance and during intermission.

On opening weekend, everyone in the audience can enjoy a free champagne toast.